The Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association (MTHA) Board of Directors met in an open meeting on June 17, 2025, at Laurel Park and via Zoom.

It’s never too early to start planning for the 2025 Ferris Allen Bootstraps Scholarship—an award created to support individuals working within the Maryland Thoroughbred racing community who aspire to further their education.

Owners and developers of Maryland-bred horses are encouraged to plan now to take advantage of the $600,000 Owner & Developer Bonus Program, which will be available during the summer break in live racing at Laurel Park.

The Maryland Jockey Club and Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association announced $25,000 purse increases for four stakes at Laurel Park on June 28.

The Maryland Racing Commission at its May meeting set in motion the regulatory process required to change the claiming rule for Thoroughbred racing in the state. The proposed rule could be in place by this fall.

Maryland-based horsemen will have the opportunity to earn automatic berths in the 2025 Claiming Crown through a series of preview races scheduled for Aug. 21 at Colonial Downs.

Dave Rodman, announcer at Maryland’s racetracks since 1991, was presented with the Maryland Jockey Club Special Award of Merit for his contributions and positive impact on the racing industry. Rodman received the award at the May 15 Preakness Alibi Breakfast at Pimlico Race Course.

In a major step forward for Maryland’s thoroughbred racing industry, the Maryland Board of Public Works today approved the $4.48 million acquisition of the 328-acre Shamrock Farm in Woodbine, Carroll County, to support expanded racing at Pimlico Race Course.

The National Thoroughbred League will kick off its 2025 season with “The Baltimore Cup” Saturday, May 10, at Pimlico Race Course.